The Twelfth Day of Christmas

On the Twelfth (and final) day of Christmas, Claire and Lucy gave to me.... New Beginnings! The girls had their first day of "Pre-school" on Monday morning. They will just be going one day a week. The teacher said that "we had every reason to be very proud". They read stories, painted and played with clay. She did say that they need to work on holding hands and understanding that they need to transition from one task to another (translation-I don't want to stop painting and you can't make me). I am so excited for them! Make sure you check out the before and after pictures of Claire and Lucy below.... talk about role reversals!

I thought that this would be a good time to wish everyone in our lives a blessed 2011. May you find all the joy and happiness in the new year that you brought to our lives in the last one. The McNallys can't wait for what 2011 has in store! Phew, after 12 posts in a row, this mama might be taking a break for awhile!

Lucy (before) is READY for her first day of school!

Claire (before), not sure what to make of the whole backpack phenomenon

Lucy (after)... I need a nap mom

Claire (after)- I am going to CRUSH this backpack!

The Eleventh Day of Christmas

On the eleventh day of Christmas, Claire and Lucy gave to me..... a New Year's Eve celebration with friends and family and a Notre Dame win over Miami!!!!

How come she gets a hat and I get this girly tiara?!
That's better!

I don't know Daddy, our offensive line doesn't look so good. I'm nervous!

Touchdown Notre Dame! (A side note- Claire points to any book or t-shirt that has an ND or shamrock, holds her hands up and yells "Touchdown".

The Tenth Day of Christmas

On the tenth day of Christmas, Claire and Lucy gave to me...... a tea party with their new dollies and new table and chairs.

The Ninth Day of Christmas

On the ninth day of Christmas, Claire gave to me.... anticipation. Isn't that one of the best memories that you have of Christmas? Being so incredibly excited about the holiday that you can hardly stand it! When I brought home the girls' new plaid dresses for Christmas, Claire couldn't wait. Claire wanted to immediately put the dress on. After she adorned the dress, she went it to the play room and returned with her purse and baby doll stroller. She then proceeded to wave and say "bye-bye". That girl is something else!

The Eighth Day of Christmas

On the eighth day of Christmas, Lucy gave to me.... traditions. Every morning when Lucy wakes up, she wants you to turn on the lights of the Christmas tree and the garland on the mantle. Then she prompts you to take the snowman globe down so that she can give it a kiss. I must admit for the first time in many years, I am not itching to take down the Christmas decorations and get everything put away. This year, I wish that it could last just a few more days. It is true, children do make Christmas wonderful and remind me of the true magic of the season.